Southern End, Lancaster County: Peaceful Living in Pennsylvania Dutch Country
The Southern End of Lancaster County is a scenic and serene region known for its rolling farmland, tight-knit communities, and deep agricultural roots. Stretching from Quarryville to the Maryland border, this area includes townships like Providence, Drumore, Little Britain, Fulton, and Bart, as well as small towns such as Quarryville, Kirkwood, and Peach Bottom. Life here moves at a gentler pace, offering residents a chance to enjoy the beauty of the countryside while staying connected to Lancaster City and nearby urban centers.
HISTORY
The Southern End has long been home to Pennsylvania Dutch farming communities, with a history rooted in agriculture, craftsmanship, and religious tradition. Many of the area’s early settlers were Amish, Mennonite, and Quaker families, and their influence is still visible today in the region’s architecture, values, and way of life. The area also played a role in the Underground Railroad, with historic sites like the Robert Fulton Birthplace commemorating its contributions to American history.
LIFESTYLE NOTES
Life in the Southern End is defined by simplicity, self-reliance, and community. Residents enjoy wide-open spaces, quiet roads, and a strong connection to the land. It’s a place where neighbors know each other, local fairs and livestock auctions are major events, and the rhythms of life are closely tied to the seasons. While the area is largely rural, it offers essential amenities, excellent schools (such as Solanco School District), and a growing number of local businesses and services. It’s ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life, whether raising a family, retiring, or working remotely.
POINTS OF INTEREST
- Robert Fulton Birthplace – A preserved stone house honoring the inventor of the steamboat, located in Fulton Township.
- Muddy Run Park – A scenic reservoir and recreation area offering fishing, boating, camping, and hiking.
- Buck Motorsports Park – A unique local attraction featuring truck and tractor pulls, demolition derbies, and motorsports events.
- Solanco Fairgrounds – Home to the annual Solanco Fair, a beloved community tradition celebrating agriculture and local talent.
- Amish and Mennonite Farms – While not tourist attractions per se, the presence of these communities adds to the region’s cultural richness and pastoral beauty.
The Southern End offers some of the most affordable and spacious real estate in Lancaster County. Properties range from modest ranch homes and historic farmhouses to large-acreage farms and custom-built homes with panoramic views. Many homes come with land, barns, or outbuildings, making the area especially attractive to hobby farmers, equestrians, and those seeking privacy. Zoning tends to be more rural and agricultural, and buyers should be prepared for well water and septic systems in many locations. The market here is ideal for those who value space, quiet, and a strong sense of place.
Austin Curtiss
Austin Curtiss Team
austin.curtiss@cbrealty.com
(717) 406-7337 mobile
(717) 735-8400 office
Coldwell Banker - Lancaster
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